Strictly utilitarian structures have their place, of course, but when it comes to our residences, health care facilities and institutional buildings, we all benefit from inspired and inclusive architecture. This month, D+D In Depth focuses on how smart choices about color and coatings help create more enriching environments for the individuals and communities they serve. We explore the trends and technologies that are bringing vibrant colors and effects to curtain wall metal, and offer guidance on selecting high-performance coatings and green materials for healthy schools. Finally, we present a series of case studies that show how using rapid-set cement allows contractors and architects to go beyond the utilitarian and create beautiful concrete floors, even under tight deadlines.— AARON JENTZEN, EDITOR

Many see institutional buildings as synonymous with cold, bare concrete, perceiving them as dysfunctional, unfeeling and evil. But the architectural language of institutional spaces is evolving, with harsh uniformity giving way to inspired, inclusive, enriching environments.

Portland cement has long been the standard for concrete floors, but the material presents a number of challenges. Calcium sulfoaluminate (CSA) cement-based overlays allow architects and contractors to produce beautiful, flat, polished floors in a fraction of the time—and at lower cost.

In the past, vibrant colors were seldom used for major construction projects, resulting in monochromatic skylines. But as architects continue to test the boundaries, color has emerged as a way to further enhance the aesthetics of a building.